Gaming & Culture —

Straight Up Chess turns the classic game into art

If you're a chess enthusiast, Straight Up Chess gives you a way to show off …

Chess is a classic game that often looks as good as it plays. Like all the finer things in life, a good chess set is a sensual experience; it should look good, the pieces should feel good in your hand... hell, I've seen hand-carved wooden pieces that smelled good! One of my favorite discoveries in the world of chess sets has been Straight Up Chess, a product that turns the game into an actual piece of art.

The concept is a simple, if brilliant one. The board hangs on the wall, with ledges coming out of each box to hold your pieces. You can recreate your favorite chess problems as a piece of art, or you can also play a game against your wife or husband, pausing to move a piece every time you walk past.

The Web site features a ton of options when it comes to boards and pieces, so take a look around. You could also provide your own pieces if you have a favorite set you want to show off. This is an interesting way to make a classic game a more social, and public, experience.

As I'm about to make a move to a new place, my resolve is breaking down. Does anyone else think this is a good idea? I'd have to move it out of my work space; I have a sneaking suspicion I would spend way too much time agonizing over my next move...